Human Nutrition Fundamentals

A type of lipid that is made up of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule.

A straight chain of carbon atoms with a carboxyl group (COOH) at one end and a methyl group (CH3) at the other end.

A fatty acid that has no double bonds between its carbon atoms.

A fatty acid that has one or more double bonds between its carbon atoms.

An unsaturated fatty acid with one double bond.

An unsaturated fatty acid with two or more double bonds.

A type of polyunsaturated fatty acid with a double bond between the 3rd and 4th carbon atom from the methyl end.

A type of polyunsaturated fatty acid with a double bond between the 6th and 7th carbon atom from the methyl end.

A process where hydrogen atoms are added to double bonds in unsaturated fatty acids, making them more saturated and stable.

A type of unsaturated fatty acid with hydrogen atoms on opposite sides of the double bond.

A type of fat that contains only single bonds between carbon atoms. They are typically solid at room temperature and found in sources like coconut oil, butter, and palm oil.

Essential fatty acids are those your body cannot produce on its own and must be obtained through your diet. Omega-3 and omega-6 are essential fatty acids.

Regulatory molecules derived from omega fatty acids. They play a role in inflammation, blood clotting, and immune function.

Organic compounds that are essential for various bodily functions, required in small amounts. Vitamins are categorized as either fat-soluble or water-soluble.

Vitamins that dissolve in fat and are stored in the body. Examples include vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Vitamins that dissolve in water and are not stored in the body. Examples include B vitamins and vitamin C.

The primary energy source for the brain. It is also used by other cells in the body.

A type of fuel that the brain uses during prolonged starvation. It is produced from the breakdown of fats.

The storage form of carbohydrates in the body. It is found in the liver and muscles.

The storage form of fat in the body. It is found in adipose tissue.

The conversion of non-carbohydrate sources (glycerol and amino acids) into glucose. It is used to maintain blood glucose levels during fasting or when carbohydrate intake is low.

A state of equilibrium of the internal environment of the body. This includes maintaining constant body temperature, pH, and blood sugar levels.

Organic catalysts that speed up chemical reactions within the body. They are mostly made up of proteins.

Substances that activate enzymes. They include vitamins, minerals, and other organic molecules.

The substance that an enzyme acts upon.

Substances that assist enzymes in their function. They are often minerals.

Chemical messengers that trigger enzymes.

A hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It regulates metabolism and the rate of oxidation in the body.

The synthesis of larger molecules from smaller ones. This process requires energy.

The breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones. This releases energy.

The minimum amount of energy needed by the body at rest.